Barge with 80,000 gallons of oil hits bridge on Mississippi, leaks

VICKSBURG, Miss. (AP) - The Coast Guard says a barge that hit a railroad bridge in Vicksburg, Miss., was carrying 80,000 gallons of light crude oil, but officials don't know how much has spilled into the Mississippi River.

Lt. Ryan Gomez says an oily sheen was reported three miles downriver of the accident, which happened early Sunday. Gomez says booms were set out to absorb and contain the oil. The river has been closed for eight miles in each direction, halting at least five northbound and two southbound vessels.

Gomez says he doesn't know how much oil has leaked. He says two barges were damaged, but it's possible only one actually hit the bridge.

Petty Officer Carlos Vega says the bridge has been found safe for trains.

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